[RGC 8.] The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank

[read: if you haven’t read this yet, this is your #1 priority from all 339 on the list]

» Must haves: peace and quiet. It’s a good book to read alone, sitting in a comfy chair with a cup of coffee. » Pairs well with: another reader to talk to. It’s a heavy book, and peer readings and reviews can really help with processing.

Genocide – The deliberate killing of a large group of people, especially those of a particular ethnic group or nation. (Oxford English Dictionary)

I think we have a tendency to believe in this country that genocide doesn’t happen. Or if it does, is it really genocide? And, ‘oh, that was just awful, wasn’t it?’ tends to be the response when it’s a proven genocide. But then, in an effort to break from such desensitization, every reader of The Diary of a Young Girl listens to the innocent, truthful, and youthful voice of Anne Frank speak directly to them.

I first read this in the 6th grade during my English class, and I still get chills reimagining her voice. I’ve carried that knowing tone, most likely of a higher pitch than mine, in the back of my mind every time I hear about an atrocity in the world. And I’d like for you to think of those voices, because it makes this world real. Think of the Holocaust, Rwanda, and ISIS today. And don’t take it lightly.

For everyone who is unaware of these scenarios, or has not personally experienced this voice, I urge you to read Diary of a Young Girl before proceeding down the RGC list.